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History
Li-polymer rechargeable batteries first appeared in 1996 as an upgrade from the original Lithium rechargeable batteries of 1991. Unlike its predecessor, which relied on porous separator soaked with electrolyte, the Lithium polymer battery contains a solid polymer composite within which the electrodes and separators are laminated to each other. These differences allow it to achieve higher energy densities. Plus, it can be shaped to fit a specific device.
Advantages
Li-poly batteries can be designed as thin as 0.5 mm, though most range between 2 to 6.5 mm. More importantly, Li-polymer batteries can support charges as low as 50 milliampere-hour and as high as 10 Ah, meaning they can be used for both small objects like Bluetooth headsets and larger devices like vehicle batteries. Additional advantages include higher resistance to overcharging and a reduced likelihood of electrolyte leakage.
Disadvantages
Lithium polymer batteries cost much more to manufacture because of the laminate material, as well as additional tabs used for sealing. Plus, Li-polymer batteries take longer to produce, meaning increased labor costs. Also, despite its advantages over conventional Lithium batteries, Li-poly batteries possess a lower energy density and a decreased cycle count. Additional disadvantages include packaging that is easily punctured and a lack of a standardized battery size.
Future
Lithium ion polymer batteries are in their infancy, so many milestones remain to be reached. They currently power some battery-powered vehicles produced by Hyundai Motor Co., but most automobile manufacturers are reluctant to jump on the bandwagon, due to the expensive cost-to-energy ratio. They are expected to become more mainstream as prices drop and capacity grows. One incredible feat involving Li-polymer batteries occurred in October 2010, when an Audi A2 was driven 375 miles at 55 mph on one charge.